Silo talk: GPS databasesSilo talk: GPS databases

October 8, 2006

GPS databases

As more GA pilots turn to GPS as their primary navigation source, it becomes all the more critical that they have access to a low-cost GPS waypoint database.

"Private companies shouldn't be the sole source of the very essential waypoint data that allow flying approach procedures, particularly since the core data are public," said Randy Kenagy, AOPA senior director of advanced technology.

Now that the FAA is "digital," it could supply a basic, low-cost database to GPS users, the AOPA team learned in Oklahoma City, allowing private companies to enhance the data with more features (frequencies, airport diagrams, etc) that many pilots would find more useful than just the government's basic information.

"AOPA's challenge now is to convince GPS manufacturers to design their boxes to accept alternate database updates," said Kenagy.